Audio Narration Guide
Simulated historical walking tour narration
s great university city. Guide to the Gothic Town Hall, Grand Béguinage UNESCO site, KU Leuven Library, Oude Markt and St. Peter's Church.">
Explore the city of KU Leuven, Stella Artois, and the longest bar in the world — where one of Europe's most spectacular Gothic town halls faces the Grand Béguinage UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Leuven is one of Belgium's most vibrant cities, home to KU Leuven (founded 1425), one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious universities. Its medieval Gothic Town Hall is among the finest in Europe, its historic Grand Béguinage is UNESCO-listed, and its Oude Markt square — surrounded by dozens of cafés — is nicknamed 'the longest bar in the world.' Leuven is also the birthplace of Stella Artois.
Explore the key historical eras that shaped Leuven, from its earliest origins to the present day.
Drag the slider handle to compare historical and modern views of Leuven.
Ghent boasts a wealth of stone monuments, guild halls, and modern museums. Use the filters below to explore this open-air museum.
Practical resources curated by locals: from hidden viewpoints and restaurants serving Waterzooi to boutique canal hotels.
Practical guidance from local travel experts to make your visit seamless, enjoyable, and budget-smart.
Climb the 73-meter bell tower of the KU Leuven Library on Ladeuze square for sweeping panoramic views over the city.
Book Stella Artois brewery tours online in advance, especially for English-guided weekend slots.
Leuven is just 20 minutes by direct train from Brussels Central and only 13 minutes from Brussels Airport (Zaventem).
Visit St. Peter's Church on the Grote Markt to admire Dirk Bouts' 1468 Flemish Primitive masterpiece 'The Last Supper'.
Everything you need to know before visiting, from train connections to local culinary secrets.
Built between 1439 and 1469, Leuven Town Hall is considered one of the finest masterpieces of Flamboyant Brabantine Gothic architecture in existence, boasting 236 intricately carved statues across its three-tiered facade.
The Oude Markt is a historic cobblestone square lined with over 40 interconnected bar and café terraces. During the academic year, thousands of students and visitors create a lively open-air social atmosphere.
Yes! Leuven is the historic birthplace of Stella Artois (brewed here since 1366 at the Den Hoorn brewery). The modern automated brewery offers interactive weekend tours concluding with fresh draught tastings.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site dating to the 13th century, the Groot Begijnhof is a remarkably preserved cobblestone mini-city of nearly 100 brick houses, bridges, and gardens, now restored as KU Leuven faculty housing.
Belgium is compact and highly connected. Continue your journey with these easy day trips from Leuven:
Belgium's capital featuring the Grand-Place, royal museums, and Art Nouveau.
Capital of taste with Europe's largest Japanese garden and jenever distillery.
Fashion capital and diamond center with stunning railway architecture.